Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park: Uganda’s Premier Safari Destination

Introduction

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, is a breathtaking wilderness offering an unforgettable safari experience. Famous for the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge, this park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and adventure seekers.

With Kwezi Adventures, explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from savannah grasslands to riverine forests, while encountering lions, elephants, giraffes, and the rare shoebill stork. This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Murchison Falls National Park.

Why Visit Murchison Falls National Park?

  • Spectacular Waterfalls – Witness the Nile’s dramatic plunge at Murchison Falls.

  • Big Five & Wildlife Safaris – Spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and more.

  • Boat Cruises to the Falls – A scenic journey with hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

  • Chimpanzee Tracking – Trek in Budongo Forest, home to habituated chimps.

  • Birdwatching Paradise – Over 450 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork.

Key Attractions in Murchison Falls National Park

1. The Mighty Murchison Falls

The park’s namesake is one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. The Nile River forces its way through a 7-meter-wide gorge, creating a thunderous spectacle. Visitors can view the falls from top-of-the-falls viewpoints or take a boat cruise to see it from below.

2. Wildlife Safaris & Game Drives

Murchison Falls is home to 76 mammal species, including:

  • Lions & leopards (predators of the savannah)

  • African elephants & buffaloes (commonly seen in herds)

  • Rothschild’s giraffes (Uganda’s only remaining population)

  • Ugandan kob (the park’s signature antelope)

The northern sector (Paraa area) is the best for game drives, especially in the dry season (December-February & June-September) when animals gather near water sources.

3. Nile River Boat Safaris

A launch cruise from Paraa to the falls is a must-do activity. Along the way, you’ll see:

  • Hippos & Nile crocodiles basking on the banks

  • Elephants & buffaloes drinking from the river

  • Shoebill storks & kingfishers (a birdwatcher’s dream)

4. Budongo Forest Chimpanzee Tracking

The Budongo Forest Reserve, part of the park, offers chimpanzee trekking experiences. With over 800 chimps, this is one of the best places in Uganda to see our closest relatives in the wild.

5. Birdwatching Hotspot

With 450+ bird species, Murchison Falls is a birding paradise. Key species include:

  • Shoebill stork (Albert Delta & Nile corridors)

  • Goliath heron & African fish eagle

  • Abyssinian ground hornbill

Best Time to Visit

  • Dry Season (Dec-Feb & June-Sept): Best for wildlife viewing.

  • Wet Season (March-May & Oct-Nov): Lush landscapes & fewer tourists.

How to Get There

  • By Road: 5-6 hours from Kampala via Masindi.

  • By Air: Charter flights to Pakuba or Bugungu airstrips.

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge

  • Mid-Range: Murchison River Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge

  • Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp, Heritage Safari Lodge

Book Your Safari with Kwezi Adventures

Ready to explore Murchison Falls National Park? Kwezi Adventures offers tailor-made safaris, including:

Contact us today for an unforgettable Ugandan adventure!